Who said little towns do not have much to offer? Well, Aus is but a little desert town in the Aus Mountains in the south of Namibia, nestled in the ||Karas Region. This quaint town is snuggled between the most visited towns in the south, namely Lüderitz (125 km away) and Keetmanshoop (215 km away).
"Felsenkirche" (Rock Church) in Luderitz. Photo: Gondwana Collection Namibia
Most people just stop in Aus for a quick bite or to fill up their vehicle’s tank rather than entertaining the thought of exploring Aus.
When heading to the south of this country, consider discovering it differently by including Klein-Aus Vista on your holiday itinerary. If you do, here are some of the highlights of wandering about in this little desert town and its surrounding landscapes.
On the barren plains of Garub, only 20 km from Aus on the eastern border of the Namib Desert, you will see glimpses of Wild Horses manoeuvring search for their daily sustenance. These movements with the open desert landscape induce a sense of freedom and peace.
The wild horses of the Namib Desert. Photo: Gondwana Collection NamibiaIf you are more of the adventurous type, then mountain biking in the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park would be ideal. It allows for exploring the dreamy mountainous scenery of Aus. Cycling tracks are stylishly laid out within the park and cater for both intermediate and advanced cyclists.
Mountain biking in the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park. Photo: Nela Shikemeni
If you would much rather delight in exploring the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park and surrounding areas by foot, there are marked hiking trails that serve as a guide, while you enjoy and learn about the scenery, flora and fauna.
The few remains of the prisoner of war camp (POW) are also worth visiting for those interested in history. This camp was where captured German soldiers were imprisoned by the South African army after the First World War. The site, located 5 km east of Aus, has been proclaimed a national monument, and a memorial stone has been erected there.
The Aus-Commonwealth Cemetery is definitely worth visiting as well. It is renowned for being the resting place of those who perished during the Spanish flu pandemic. One particularly notable grave is that of Mary Ann 'Breeza' Nelson, who was a qualified nurse and the wife of Major Edward Irving Nelson, the Garrison Adjutant. She was buried with military honours, having lost her life while on duty, caring for others.
The Aus Commonwealth Cemetery. Photo: Gondwana Collection NamibiaThere are various quality and affordable accommodation establishments you can stay at in the area, such as the private and quiet Eagles Nest Chalets as well as Desert Horse Inn. Or perhaps you prefer a more adventurous option such as the Desert Horse Campsite or Geisterschlucht Cabin.
Eagle's Nest Chalets. Photo: Röder
Also, there is the Bahnhof Hotel Aus for the city slickers. And after a long day of exploring, be sure to indulge in the beer-battered hake fillet with a mini salad or the crispy fried barbecue Buffalo wings at the Bahnhof Hotel Aus Restaurant.
If you ever wondered what to do in Aus, now you know! So, make a stopover, explore the gorgeous landscapes set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Aus Mountains, and immerse yourself in the history of this charming desert town.
Author – I’m Nela, from Windhoek, Namibia but born in a small village called Omatunda in northern Namibia. I am passionate about writing, research and photography, as it helps me gain knowledge about people and my country.
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